Nannie Peak Loop

Head to the site of a former fire lookout for expansive sunset views, then wait for darkness to enjoy a star-spangled night sky before heading back to camp.

It’s possible to do this loop as a day hike, but if you can snag one of the few campsites near Sheep Lake, you’ll be glad you extended the trip. Hike this one clockwise, to ensure you’ll have a face full of views the whole way ‘round.

Begin on the Nannie Ridge Trail and climb through cool forest. About 1.5 miles in, the forest becomes interspersed with clearings and the grade becomes steeper. Luckily, switchbacks help ease the upward movement, until the 3-mile mark atop Nannie Peak. This is the site of the former fire lookout with 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic peaks, with Mount Rainier to the north and Mounts Adams and St. Helens to the south.

Your campsite (if there’s one open) is at Sheep Lake, 1.4 miles further on, at a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. There are other sites about a 0.5 mile down the PCT if Sheep Lake is full. The trail between Nannie Peak and Sheep Lake follows a ridgeline for much of the way, so step carefully, especially on your return trip in the dark. The next day, head south on the PCT, past meadows and quiet ponds, to the Walupt Creek Trail. Turn right and continue 3.5 miles back to the trailhead at Walupt Lake.